Denver - In response to shameful and insensitive remarks by Independent Institute President Jon Caldara comparing recent legislation to fund education in the state to "date rape," Pat Waak, Chair of the Colorado Democratic Party, released a public call to Dick Wadhams, Chair of the Colorado Republican Party to repudiate Caldara's remarks.

"Coloradans want quality public education for their children," said Waak, "and this year's School Finance Act helps deliver that."

"We are going to have disagreements about ways to solve problems in Colorado," said Waak. "We welcome spirited debate and respectful differences of opinion."

"But Jon Caldera's remarks are anything but respectful," said Waak. "By invoking an atrocity committed against women to score political points, Caldera demeans all public servants, regardless of party, who dedicate themselves to Colorado. And he demeans all women who have been the victims of a horrific crime."

According to the Colorado Coalition Against Sexual Assault, 24% of women in Colorado have been victims of sexual assault in their lifetime.

"There is absolutely no place in political discourse for comments like Caldara's," said Waak. "I think Coloradans deserve to know whether the Republican party chair will stand by this kind of rhetoric or rise above it."